Presidential Message on Juneteenth
For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
June 15, 2005
I send greetings to all Americans celebrating Juneteenth.
Major General Gordon Granger led Union soldiers into Galveston,
Texas, on June 19, 1865, bringing the news that the Civil War had ended
and that the Emancipation Proclamation, signed over 2 years earlier, had
declared all slaves to be free persons. This historic day is celebrated
to remember the end of slavery. Emancipation demonstrated our country's
belief in liberty and equality for every citizen, and was a profound
recognition that each and every American has rights, dignity, and
matchless value.
One hundred forty years later, the Juneteenth observance continues to
remind us of our country's founding principles of liberty and justice
for all. As we mark the anniversary of the end of servitude, we also
recognize the many contributions of African Americans to our culture.
African Americans have helped shape our country's character, enhanced
the diversity that makes America strong, and contributed to the
vitality, success, and prosperity of our Nation. Juneteenth is a day
that stands for the dignity and equality of all citizens, regardless of
race, so that all may share the blessings of freedom that America
provides.
Laura and I send our best wishes on this special occasion. May God
bless you, and may God continue to bless America.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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